Resource

State WIC Agencies Use Federal Flexibility to Streamline Enrollment

State WIC agencies are leveraging federal flexibilities to simplify enrollment and increase participation among eligible families.

Author: Zoë Neuberger
Published Year: 2022

The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities (CBPP) reports that state and local WIC agencies are adopting policy adjustments to remove barriers to enrollment, utilizing federal flexibilities to streamline processes.

These measures include simplifying certification procedures, extending certification periods, and implementing remote services. Such strategies aim to make it easier for eligible families to access WIC benefits, thereby improving nutrition and health outcomes for women, infants, and children. The report highlights that these efforts have led to a statistically significant increase in WIC coverage rates, demonstrating the effectiveness of utilizing available federal flexibilities to enhance program accessibility.